In honor of School Library Month, digitalLIFT celebrates librarians as the most trusted digital navigators in our communities. Despite the rapid changes occurring in these anchor institutions, they remain one of the primary ways to reach and serve those struggling with the digital divide. Join us as our panel discusses the challenges and opportunities that libraries face in our current cultural moment. Panel members: Dianne Connery, Development Director of Pottsboro Area Library; Taylor Meriwether, Technology and Digital Accessibility Officer for Oklahoma Department of Libraries; and Bo Ford, Program Manager of Digital Equity for the New Mexico State Library. Raffle Giveaway: Library LIFT

How does the digital divide affect the LGBTQIA+ community? How can our digital navigation work and capacity-building initiatives better address - and meet - their needs? As we work to provide reliable and affordable access to technology, we remember that digital equity is about so much more than that; it's about ensuring equality, support, and opportunities for all people to live healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives. How can we do this more effectively? Join us as we talk with a panel of digital inclusion advocates, hosted by Lo Smith, Senior Programs Manager at NDIA.

At work, are you as approachable as you think you are? Do you feel confident in understanding social cues? Are you sure? Join us as we discuss social anxieties in the workplace, with a special focus on digital inclusion efforts. This session will provide valuable insights to help us better understand social anxieties, including those related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression.

It's a common misconception that all young people are adept at using technology and have easy access to the internet. In reality, the digital divide significantly impacts many young folks, particularly those from lower-income families, rural areas, or underserved communities. As students head back to college this month, it's vital to address how the digital divide impacts their lives, academic success, and future professional opportunities.

The importance of bilingual training in bridging the digital divide.

Acknowledging the role of caregivers as digital navigators and their many efforts to bridge the digital divide in their daily work. Tying many of these concepts in with digital citizenship principles.

Digital Inclusion lessons learned in 2024. Discussion of current trends and issues. Looking into 2025, how to prepare? Gentle nudge to partner with CTN and/or use our courses as a way to give the gift of digital inclusion in 2025.